Top 5 Underrated Books You Should Read This Year

In a world where bestsellers often dominate the spotlight, many hidden literary gems go unnoticed. These underrated books offer unique perspectives, storytelling styles, and insights that deserve to be recognized. Whether you’re looking for something new or just want to dive into something different, here are five books that might not be on everyone’s radar but are definitely worth your time this year.
1. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern

Genre: Fantasy, Magical Realism
Why It’s Underrated: Despite its initial popularity, “The Night Circus” often gets overshadowed by other big fantasy titles. Its enchanting narrative, set within a magical circus that appears without warning, is a stunning exploration of love, rivalry, and imagination. Morgenstern’s lush prose transports readers into a world filled with mystery and whimsy, but it remains a book that many have yet to discover or fully appreciate.
Why You Should Read It: If you love immersive fantasy worlds with rich, atmospheric writing, this book will captivate you from start to finish. The unique plot, with its intricate descriptions and magical duels, leaves readers spellbound long after the final page.
2. “A Visit from the Goon Squad” by Jennifer Egan

Genre: Literary Fiction
Why It’s Underrated: While this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel received some attention upon release, it remains underappreciated in mainstream discussions. Told through interwoven stories, Egan creates a patchwork of narratives about time, identity, and the music industry. Each chapter is a different perspective, some presented in unconventional formats like PowerPoint slides, making it a daring and creative read.
Why You Should Read It: Egan’s ability to experiment with form while crafting poignant, character-driven stories is impressive. “A Visit from the Goon Squad” offers a fresh and innovative approach to storytelling that’s both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
3. “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction
Why It’s Underrated: Despite being a bestseller in some circles, “The Shadow of the Wind” remains a hidden gem for many readers. Set in post–Spanish Civil War Barcelona, it follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious book that leads him into a dark and twisting story of intrigue, obsession, and danger. The novel is a homage to literature itself, exploring how stories can shape our lives.
Why You Should Read It: If you enjoy books within books and a deeply atmospheric setting, this novel will captivate you. Zafón masterfully blends mystery with romance and historical drama, creating a rich tapestry of unforgettable characters and a hauntingly beautiful narrative.
4. “Circe” by Madeline Miller

Genre: Mythological Fiction
Why It’s Underrated: Although “Circe” received critical acclaim, it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves in the crowded genre of retellings. Miller reimagines the story of Circe, the Greek goddess of magic, giving her a voice and a richly textured backstory. The novel explores themes of female empowerment, loneliness, and transformation with a deeply humanistic approach.
Why You Should Read It: Miller’s poetic prose and empathetic portrayal of Circe’s journey make this book a standout. It’s perfect for anyone who loves Greek mythology, strong female protagonists, or reflective, character-driven narratives.
5. “The Overstory” by Richard Powers
Genre: Eco-Fiction, Literary Fiction
Why It’s Underrated: Despite winning the Pulitzer Prize, “The Overstory” is often overlooked by readers who shy away from books about environmental themes. This novel is a sweeping, multi-generational tale about the lives of trees and their interconnectedness with humans. Powers’ characters are richly drawn, and his exploration of ecological activism and the natural world is both timely and deeply resonant.
Why You Should Read It: If you’re looking for a novel that challenges your thinking and connects the dots between humanity and nature, “The Overstory” is a profound, transformative experience. Its narrative pushes readers to see the world in a new light, offering both beauty and a call to action in the face of environmental degradation.
Final Thoughts
These underrated books each bring something fresh and valuable to the table, whether it’s through their unique storytelling methods, profound themes, or captivating settings. If you’re looking to break away from the mainstream and explore something different, these five hidden gems should be at the top of your reading list this year. Happy reading!